Try These 20 Inventive Ways to Style a Turtleneck In Any Season

Though it gets a bad reputation for being boring, the modest turtleneck is actually probably the easiest way to make a simple outfit look more creative. How? You just have to make like an onion and learn how to layer it in unexpected ways, but we realize that's easier said than done. If you're wondering how to wear a turtleneck while still making it feel fresh and on trend, you're in the right place.

We took a look through some of our favorite fashion influencer and tastemaker accounts on Instagram to see how they've been styling their turtlenecks for inspiration. Ready to spice up sweater weather with some turtlenecks? Scroll through the stylish outfits below to start planning your workweek looks. 

Wear Your Turtleneck With… A Long-Sleeve Dress

When it comes to office-appropriate pieces, it doesn't get much more on-point than a turtleneck, but if you want to spice things up a little, try layering a dress over it. We love the idea of a loose-fitting khaki dress so you can shrug up the sleeves and show off the turtleneck underneath. Then add a pair of fun earrings for a pop of extra shine. This will also extend the shelf life of your favorite lightweight dresses since you'll be able to stay warm with layers, too. 

Wear Your Turtleneck With... All The Classics

Since it's not too cold out yet, you don't have to pile on that many layers. Give your basic jeans and tee combination a seasonal update with a tight, tucked-in turtleneck shirt, a plaid blazer, some classic denim pants, and some booties. If you want to look more polished, try adding a leather belt and top-handle bag.  

Wear Your Turtleneck With… Retro-Inspired Neutrals

Before you start putting those miniskirts away, take notes from the fall-ready outfit above. There's nothing quite like a miniskirt and matching long coat to turn heads. We love the retro-inspired cardigan layered over the crisp white turtleneck and the on-trend belt bag to finish things off. Though there are a lot of working parts and everything looks cohesive and polished thanks to the tight color scheme. 

Wear Your Turtleneck With… All-Black, Everything

There's nothing wrong with wearing an all-black outfit. In fact, it's sartorial perfection if you know how to keep things interesting with the right accessories and contrasting textures. We love this high-impact tight black turtleneck with an edgy leather motorcycle jacket and simple black jeans. The dainty layered necklaces worn over the shirt add just the right amount of refinement. 

Wear Your Turtleneck With… A Chunky Necklace

Here's another outfit that makes a strong case for pulling your necklaces outside of your shirt. It introduces a sophisticated (though slightly offbeat and unexpected) touch to the pared-down Canadian tuxedo look. Add a short-sleeved chambray button-up for more dimension. 

Wear Your Turtleneck With… A Suit and Sneakers

Not sure what to wear to work this season? When in doubt, wear a solid suit with a thin turtleneck top, and then make it a little funkier by adding a belt bag and some comfortable sneakers. It's both professional, youthful, and oh so practical. 

Wear Your Turtleneck With… Classics and Trends

The bike short trend has been cropping up all over Instagram and fashion week street style looks this season. While it's probably not everyone's cup of tea, we're here for this aesthetic (think boardroom meets '90s gymnastics tournament.) The sporty yet flirty vibe of bike shorts will balance out the polished feel of a blazer, while the top-handle bag adds some girly-girl flair. If you don't want to be this experimental, try a pencil skirt or loose Bermuda shorts. 

Wear Your Turtleneck With… Whimsical Prints and Layers

Printed turtlenecks with whimsical patterns and splashes of color are probably the easiest way to switch things up. We love how this outfit gives the super-feminine print a twist with edgy leather pants and an oversize button-down shirt. 

Wear Your Turtleneck With… Bold Colors and Trousers

Opt for a turtleneck in a bold primary color and then tuck it into a classic pair of neutral trousers. We love how this outfit really owns the "ugly sneaker" trend and even emphasizes it further by showing off those bright white socks. A plaid blazer or coat will tie everything together nicely. 

Looking for more ideas to style a turtleneck? Let these additional suggestions inspire your next look. Wear your turtleneck:

Under a Button-Down Shirt

Layer a turtleneck under a button-down shirt, and add a coat over the ensemble on extra-cold days.

As a Matching Set

A turtleneck looks polished and appropriate in more formal office settings when worn as a matching set.

Under a Minidress

When the weather begins to cool, styling a turtleneck under a mini-dress extends its wearability to transition you to the next season.

Over a Dress

Dress down a formal sheath or gown with an oversized turtleneck.

With a Miniskirt

Keep the focus on those stems with a turtleneck and miniskirt pairing.

Tucked In With a Statement Coat

Tuck the hem of a turtleneck into jeans, pants, a skirt and pair it with your favorite statement coat for a casual yet cool way to keep warm in-between seasons.

With Tights and Ankle Boots

Glam up your athleisure wear with a cashmere turtleneck and sleek boots and you'll be ready for a day of urban exploring in a snap.

With High-Wasted Pants

Opt for a cropped turtleneck to balance out this look.

Fancied Up With Statement Jewelry

We mentioned pairing a turtleneck with a chunky necklace, but you don't have to stop there. Try a bold arm cuff, a stack of rings, or drop earrings for a playful, avant-garde vibe.

As a Sweater Dress

Take the guesswork out of getting dressed in this cozy yet polished number.

With Dark Wash Jeans and Sneakers

Everyone looks good in a pair of dark jeans, and depending on the look you're going for, swap sneakers for heels, boots, or flats! The options are limitless.